Mrs BFG emailed me this one today. Thought it was funny. Not sure who to credit.

FRENCH RAISE ALERT LEVELS....... Following the events in London last week the French government announced yesterday that it has raised its terror alert level from 'Run' to 'Hide'. The only two higher levels in France are 'Surrender' and 'Collaborate'. The rise was precipitated by a recent fire which destroyed France's white flag factory, effectively paralysing their military.

Updates from around Europe:

The Italians have increased their alert level from "shouting excitedly" to "elaborate military posturing". Two more levels remain, "ineffective combat operations" and "change sides".

The Germans have also increased their alert state from "disdainful arrogance" to "full dress-uniform and marching songs". They have two higher levels, "invade a neighbour" and "lose".

Seeing this reaction in continental Europe the Americans have gone from "isolationism" to "find somewhere ripe for regime change". Their remaining higher alert states are "take on the world" and "ask the British for help".

The Dutch have decided to take this to referendum, whilst acknowledging the rights of the various political factions to hold marches and protest at whatever the contrary view is.

Finally here in GB we've gone from "pretend nothing's happening" to "make another cup of tea". Our higher levels are "chin-up and remain cheerful" and "win".

Writing about issues that are generally perceived as affecting the workforce in a negative way is a minefield. Especially if you are one of the minority that may benefit from the sweeping industrial changes planned by the Howard Government, which is enjoying an unparalleled position of power and influence due to the last election results.

To be honest the announcement of the proposed industrial reform was a bit of a shock to me. The majority of Australians
work for someone else, and if I understand the basic political machine
the majority of votes is what gets politicians elected. Maybe I'm wrong.

I tend to prefer the comedic quip to the serious expose. I probably would have wondered quietly to my blog if John Howard was attempting to put an end to Peter Costello's leadership aspirations by ensuring the demise of any re-election hopes in the future. Or doing a bit on where John Howard's reason ate its lunch, and what it thought of the reform plans when it got back to the office. Maybe pointing out that he probably has more carte blanche with Kim Beasley trying out again in the opposition hot seat than with his power over the Parliment, and may have nothing to worry about anyway.

But hate mail doesn't sit well in my in-box.

Then Johnno popped the question and I actually started to give it some serious consideration.